Common

Common, born as Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., is a highly respected figure in the world of hip hop, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and contributions to socially conscious rap. Born on March 13, 1972, in Chicago, U.S., Common embarked on his musical career in the early 1990s, and has since crafted a diverse body of work that explores complex themes and pushes artistic boundaries.

An interesting story about Common's career happened during the creation of his critically acclaimed album "Be" in 2005. After receiving lukewarm responses to his previous album, "Electric Circus," Common decided to reconnect with his roots for "Be," working closely with fellow Chicago-native, Kanye West, who produced most of the album. The result was a highly praised record that returned to the soulful, consciousness-raising themes that marked Common's early career. This shift demonstrated Common's adaptability and his commitment to remaining true to his artistic vision. His collaboration with Kanye West also highlighted the mutual respect and shared dedication to artistic exploration that has come to define both of their careers.